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Barrett Raff Obituary
Dr. Barrett Joel Raff
of Vestal
Dr. Barrett Joel Raff, 69, died Monday, February 18, 2008. He is predeceased by his parents, Alexander and Minnie Raff; and sister, Elaine Frances Raff. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Shirley Raff; children, Robin and Lux Taylor, Sacramento, Calif., and Kevin and Merit Raff, Minneapolis, Minn.; and treasured grandchildren, Allyson Taylor, Erin Taylor, Derek Taylor and Alexander Raff. Barry was born in Brooklyn and graduated from James Madison High School. He received his undergraduate degree from Brooklyn College of Pharmacy, his DDS from the University of Maryland. After serving as a Captain in the US Army, he moved to Gouveneur, N.Y. for a short time before moving to Vestal. Barry practiced General Dentistry in Johnson City for almost 40 years. He loved his profession and was a perfectionist in his craft. He was loved by his office staff and his patients. Barry was a devoted member of Beth David Synagogue and Temple Israel, a founding executive board member of Chabad House, an ardent supporter of Hillel Academy and a good friend -- everyday and in times of need -- to all in the Jewish community and beyond. He was an avid bridge player, having made the rank of Life Master and winning a National Championship in 1989. "The Bear", as he was affectionately called, was a man of great integrity with a good sense of humor. Although he was weakened by his heart attack, his zest for life was not diminished. He still worked full-time, played bridge, and traveled. Above all, his favorite activity was spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held 12:00 noon, Wednesday, February 20, 2008, at Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, with Rabbi Aaron Slonim of Chabad House officiating and Rabbi Zev Silber of Beth David co-officiating. Interment will be in Beth David Cemetery. Graveside services will be private. Shiva will be observed at the Raff residence, Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m., Saturday from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. and again from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Barry's name may be made to Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, N.Y. 13905; The Chabad House, 420 Murray Hill Road, Vestal, N.Y. 13850; or the American Heart Association, 59 Court Street, 4th Floor, Binghamton, N.Y. 13901. Expressions of sympathy for the family may be forwarded to [email protected]. Arrangements directed by the DeMunn Funeral Home.
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Memories and Condolences
for Barrett Raff
Sponsored by The Raff Family.
Mark Borden
March 21, 2008
It took me a while to wright this, but I'm missing Barry. I worked with him at the office. I kept thinking he would walk though the door asking me to do something for him or he was on vacation and was coming back. I thought of him like a Dad to me. It's different now. Barry's advice will help us get through life and keep moving forward. Thanks for everything.
Love, Mark Borden,Sandy, Darby
Ronald and Arlene Sahr
March 14, 2008
We are so very sad to recently hear about the passing of our long time friend, Barry. We wish to extend our sincerest sympathy to Shirley and her family.
Barbara and Charles Goodwin
March 10, 2008
Dear Raff Family, we extend our deepest sympathies on the passing of Dr. Raff.
Over the past 30 years, we've grown to think of Dr. Raff not only as our dentist, but as our friend. We've shared the loss of parents and the blessings of grandchildren. We even shared the same birthday. He was always quick to point out he was a few years older; I would respond that made him so much wiser; which he was.
Dr. Raff was truly an exceptional man in his abilities as a dentist and in his love and devotion to family, friends, community and profession. He will be dearly missed.
Karen Keefe-Guzikowski
March 10, 2008
Dear Mrs. Raff and Family:
The Guzikowski family is truly saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Raff. Barrett cared for us for more than twenty five years. It was an honor to know him. His care and compassion were beyond measure. We valued him as our friend. We will miss him dearly. There are so many people whose lives he enriched. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Bob, Karen and Emma Guzikowski
Kevin McGee, RN
March 3, 2008
To Dr. Raff's family and wonderful staff, we have just now learned of the passing of this incredible man. I first new him as a patient in the practice I worked for, then as his patient for many years. He was beyond being our family dentist, he was our friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Shirley, Robin, Kevin and the grandchildren, as well as his loving and devoted staff.
The McGee Family: Kevin, Melodie, Molly and Dylan
dan boye
March 2, 2008
Shirley, Robin, and Kevin - Barry is such a special person. His caring, his genuine love of people, his sense of humor, and his willingness to give of himself to help others is his legacy. All of you are stronger because of his love for you and the example he set in both his professional as well as his private life. While he will never be far from your thoughts and hearts, I know he has done things to also build his memory with his precious grandchildren. He spoke of them often with a smile in his voice and a sparkle in his eyes. I will miss the frequent calls to discuss the latest NBA trade or his latest bridge adventure. Mostly, I will miss his spirit and encouraging words. May your immediate loss be tempered with the knowledge that his smile, his laugh, and his love will never leave you.
Donna Kilbury
March 2, 2008
I am only one of Dr. Raff's many patients who knew how special he was. When I moved to Florida, after more than twenty five years under his care, I had to go to a new dentist. After he finished examining me, he told me that it was obvious that I had had excellent dental care. I always wanted to tell Dr. Raff that. We will all miss him.
Donna McQueeney
February 26, 2008
Shirley, I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss of Barrett. May loving memories of your life together uplift and strengthen you.
edward hickey iii
February 25, 2008
Barrett always looked out for my tiny little troubled teeth. A great man who will be truly be missed. So easy to get riled up about anything from the weather to basketball (especially if you were on the wrong side of the knicks on that particular day) He will be missed in many ways, most of witch I didn't know him well enough to appreciate. Thoughts and Prayers
Ed jr
Jeanie & Joe vanHoff
February 22, 2008
The entire vanHoff family deeply mourns the passing of Dr. Raff, and we offer our condolences to his family and many friends. We have lost a dear friend who was compassionate, generous and caring, and never boring. He was the king of multi-tasking, somehow able to simultaneously work on a patient, talk on the phone, bark orders to the staff, and stay abreast of the stock market. He was ready at any moment, day or night, to help others. Barry was a loyal and appreciated friend and mentor. He had a profound effect on everyone who worked for him, and was a true pillar of the community. So many of us will miss this amazing man. Thank you, Barry, for everything. Rest in peace..Aloha
Sharon Potusky
February 22, 2008
Dear Raff Family, I was very to sorry to know that Dr.Raff has passed.I know there wasn't a better dentist.I also feel honored that he called me friend. His memory will always be in my heart. May God speed. Sharon
Don Probst
February 22, 2008
Shirley, Robin and Kevin
My deepest sympathy for your loss and all who knew Barry.
Marjorie Robinson
February 21, 2008
Dr. Raff was one of the most kind hearted and loving people that I have ever met. He has touched so many lives. The memory of the kind of person he was, will make all of us better people, as we live from his example.
Pat and John Kechak
February 20, 2008
Mrs.Raff and family;
What a wonderful service today. It was a fitting tribute to one of the most caring, generous and genuine human beings we've had the pleasure to know(and work for). It's too bad he couldn't have been there, he would have enjoyed it(although he probably wouldn't have let anyone finish, he was so modest).
Please let us know if there's anything at all we can do for you or your family.
Charles Westgate
February 20, 2008
Gloia and I have known Barry since we came to Binghamton. He was a wonderful dentist and a good friend. We will miss him greatly
Kristi Barrett
February 20, 2008
To the Raff Family and office staff- My sincerest condolences during your time of loss. Dr. Raff was a phenomenal dentist and always took such wonderful care of myself and my mom Patti Thomas. He was always so funny and made sure we had the best care. I had a horrible car accident 6 months before my wedding and he made sure I had a beautiful smile for my special day. I am deeply saddened by his passing and I hope the joyful memories he left behind help you in celebrating his life
Stephen Yonaty
February 20, 2008
Deepest condolences to the entire Raff family on Dr. Raff's passing. He will forever be missed by the many people he touched, and remembered for the outstanding example he set.
Kim and Stephen Yonaty and family
Donna King
February 20, 2008
My deepest sympathies are extended to the Raff Family. We had the priviledge of having Dr. Raff as our dentist at Susquehanna Nursing Home for many years. He was exceptional in the care that he provided to all of the residents. He will be greatly missed by them and all of the staff.
Dr. George P. Rejebian
February 20, 2008
Dear Shirley and family,
Our heartfelt sympathy to all of you. Barry was a kind and unique friend who will be missed by us and our family.
May God replace your sadness with fond memories.
Marion and George Rejebian (St. Petersburg,Florida)
Stephen and Amber Menta
February 20, 2008
Dr. Raff was a very good dentist for my husband and I. In March of 2004 Dr. Raff removed a wisdom tooth for my husband very late in the day as he was preparing for a trip to California. He was always very gentle and very concerned for our comfort. I pray that his family feel the peace that passes all understanding in this time of grief. May the Lord Blessand keep you!
Rob Kreppel
February 20, 2008
Dr. Raff was one of the most kind hearted people we have ever met. He was such a treasure to the community and everybody that came into contact with him. We will miss him dearly.
Rob, Stacy, and Eli Kreppel
Barbara and Irv Rosenberg
February 20, 2008
We were friends for over thirty years and shared some wonderful times together. Barry will be sorely missed both as our wonderful dentist and most especially as our dear friend. He will continue to live in our memory.
Irv and Barbara Rosenberg
John Hagan
February 20, 2008
I was shocked to see that Dr. Raff had died. He was a first-rate dentist and a wonderful person. He will be missed by all who knew him. My deepest condolences go out to the family.
Connie Thurston
February 20, 2008
Our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Raff's family. He truly was a very kind and caring man. He took a personal interest in our family and we will always remember him.
Sincerely,
Jim,Connie and Andrew Thurston
Dr. Werner Lipman
February 20, 2008
I will always remember the wonderful care and friendship.
Dan King
February 20, 2008
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Dr. Raff took great care of our student-athletes. He will be greatly missed. - Binghamton University Sports Medicine
Lisa Dutcher
February 20, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the Raff family. Dr. Raff was such a nice person with a great sense of humor. He was a man with a heart of gold. Not only was he my dentist, but he was my friend.
Anne Fluno-Kinney
February 20, 2008
Shirley and family, I extend my deepest sympathies to all of you. I was blessed to know Dr. Raff and work for him as well. May memories of him live on in your hearts forever. So sorry for your loss.
Marilyn & Don Livsky
February 20, 2008
Don and I wish to express our deepest sympathy to Shirley and Family.
Mark Bennett and Pat Ohara
February 20, 2008
Shirley, Robin, and Kevin--Our very deepest and heartfelt sympathy on Barry's passing. We hope that memories of your many happy times with Barry will help you through the difficult time ahead. Our prayers and thoughts are with you, and with Barry.
Paul F. Tschopp
February 19, 2008
Mrs. Raff and Family: May your memories help to bring comfort in your sorrow and your many thoughts to come brighten your tomorrows Dr. Raff was a fine man, dentist and friend, God Bless
Lois & Sy Fiddle
February 19, 2008
We shared many great times together. Barry was a generous, kind and thoughtful human being. He certainly will be missed.
Sherry Anderson
February 19, 2008
Shirley and family,
Am saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Raff. I worked for Dr. Kotchick from 1968 to July of 1973. Dr. Raff was always very pleasant to be around. I know he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sherry Cole Anderson
Steve & Chris Radi
February 19, 2008
Dr. Barrett Raff was our wonderful dentist during the years we lived in Endwell. He was an outgoing and fascinating man. Please accept our deepest sympathies. He will be greatly missed.
Ashley Monticello
February 19, 2008
My heart goes out to your family at this difficult time. I will always remember Dr. Raff and his great ability to always put a smile on my face and to make me laugh.
Dr. Werner Lipman
February 19, 2008
I will always remember the wonderful care and friendship.
Ed Golebiewski
February 19, 2008
Dr. Raff's professional skills were immense, but even these were overshadowed by his worth as a person. He was a good guy! My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Marilyn & Donald Livsky
February 19, 2008
Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Louis And Sue Allen
February 19, 2008
My wife and I and our son Steven want to offer you our sincere condolences. While we live in Florida, Steven, who is disabled and living in Endicott , often talks about Dr. Raff and how well they have bonded. It always meant a lot to us. Steven is very much affected.
February 19, 2008
Shirley...My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Suzanne Slimbaugh,
Jupiter, Florida
Peter Solecky
February 19, 2008
Barry was a very generous man. He had a quick wit and was always willing to support. My family has known Barry as our dentist and good friend for over 30 years. I had a great admiration for his devotion in all he did. We were running partners for some time and this evolved into a lasting friendship. Professionally he was the most articulate, exacting, devoted and talented person I ever meet. If you knew the real Barry then you loved him as I did. My earnest and most heart felt sentiments go out to Shirley, Robin and Kevin as well as their families. I just saw him last week but I miss him already. God bless this gem of a man and allow him to achieve in heaven all that his tenure on earth did not allow time to complete. Barry while you are enjoying all that heaven has to offer; we will be missing you and thinking of you. Good bye my good friend and thanks for never forgetting Luba, Eric, Aretka and myself in our times of need. You always found time to express your support with your presence, compassion and generosity. You will not be forgotten. Your time on earth has been acknowledged and recorded.Good job. Rest in peace.
Betty Rappaport
February 19, 2008
Dear Shirley & family,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your lovely family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Betty & Mark
Lisha Levin
February 19, 2008
Mrs. Raff, Robin and Kevin,
We are so sorry for your loss. Dr. Raff was such a wonderful a friend to our family, he was always there no matter what. We cannot tell you how much we have appreciated and cherished his love and friendship over the years. Our lives will not be the same without him. We wish that we could be there in person to offer you our love and support, but please know you are in our thoughts and prayers always.
Lisha, Adam, Andrew and Ethan Levin
R G
February 19, 2008
Shirley,Robin&Kevin,
I was sad to hear about the passing of Dr. Raff. I was his first dental assistant/office worker. He trained me well which paved my way for future jobs.
Jill Vanek
February 19, 2008
Our deepest sympathies are with the family. Dr. Raff was a wonderful man with a kind heart. He will be missed by all. Love, Jill, Bill and Jacob Vanek
Tuna Belentepe
February 19, 2008
Mom and I am so sorry to hear of your loss.Our deepest condolences are with you.May your memories bring you comfort.
Nancy Strnatka
February 19, 2008
With deepest sorrow,
Former patients,
Nancy and Dan Strnatka
Elma Wright
February 19, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
terri & shep bennett
February 19, 2008
all our love
betsy weiner
February 19, 2008
We express our sympathy to you and your family. All of us were sadden to learn of Barry`s recent passing.
Alan and Betsy Lipetz Weiner
Holly Weiner Schnier
Brenda McIntyre-Portz
February 19, 2008
As a patient, and the mother of a former employee: Kelly Lloyd, aka Kitty,who took care of Minnie as well, I express my deepest sympathy. Dr. Raff was very good to my daughter and a great dentist.
sid and gail kreppel
February 19, 2008
Barry was the most kindhearted and loving man that we have ever met. Words cannot express how much he will be missed. It is said that if you have a "best friends" you are blessed. Barry was, and in our heart will always be our Best Friend. Sid and Gail Kreppel
Morton Levy
February 19, 2008
Brenda and I extend our deepest sympathies to Shirley and the family.
We are truly saddened at Barry's passing.
Brenda and Mort Levy
Jennifer Morrison
February 19, 2008
Robin and Mrs. Raff, I am very sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dorothea Crandall
February 19, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time,
Bob Molino
February 19, 2008
My deepest sympathy...
I can attest to his perfectionism.
He didn't listen to well but he was quite a guy. Barry was one of a kind!
Susan Starke
February 19, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
david and linda mahler
February 19, 2008
please accept our deepest sympathies
barry's demise is a loss to humanity
there was no dearer friend
as kindliness enkindleth kindliness, so did the lamp of barry's life light up all those with whom he came in contact
Riva Rittberg, Ginsburg
February 19, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
myron ernst
February 19, 2008
Dr.Raff will be long remembered as a devoted Jew and a devoted member of his community at large.
Lisa & Alan Berk
February 19, 2008
Barry will be missed walking through the neighborhood. We greatly enjoyed always chatting and catching up with him.
Kelly Lloyd
February 19, 2008
Shirley, Robin and Kevin, I am truely sorry for your loss. Dr. Raff was a wonderful man. I am so glad to have known him, as well as work for him for several years. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Charles & Susan Gilinsky
February 19, 2008
So sad. Another patriarch leaves us. May the almighty bless his memory and keep him alive under sheltering wings.
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